Victoria police, witnesses chase down suspected vandals

A team effort between bystanders and a Victoria police canine officer led to the arrest of two men, after a parked car was vandalized in Victoria on Saturday morning.

Police responded to the Kings Road and Quadra Street area just after 3 a.m. to a report that a Pontiac Sunfire had been kicked, causing serious damage.

A Victoria police canine officer and his dog picked up the trail of the suspects, who had been chased by witnesses. The pair were tracked to a home at Blanshard and Bay streets.

“The homeowner came to the backyard and refused to let officers in to arrest the vandals,” Victoria police Const. Mike Russell said. “Eventually, the homeowner was arrested for obstructing the officers, and both the vandals were subsequently located.”

A Haida Gwaii man, 19, and a Langford man, 27, each face charges of mischief. Their next court date is in July.

Police released the homeowner, but say he could be summoned to court at a later date.